A Taste of Venom: Book of the Protectorates # 3

By D. Jeremy Doraido

Four years hasn’t mellowed the nature of Guardian Master Randolph. If anything, their relationship has grown more strained. Desmond, Jason Aurelius’ dear friend, tries to intervene, but things only become more hostile. Guardian Master Raymond is sent to another Protectorate for the day where their Supreme Guardian is dying. Jason Aurelius is promoted to Guardian Master and sits in proxy in the Second Chair. Events in Protectorate turn deadly. A conspiracy rears its ugly head as members are murdered. The first being someone close to Jason Aurelius. But there is another presence - a little green chameleon named Herbert makes himself known to anyone with evil intent for his Healer. And that’s anyone!

• Language: English
• Publisher: Lulu Publishing Services
• Release date: Aug 14, 2018
• ISBN: 9781483489353

Book preview

A TASTE OF VENOM

Book of the Protectorates # 3

D. Jeremy Doraido

Copyright © 2018 D. Jeremy Doraido.

All rights reserved. No part of this book may be reproduced, stored, or transmitted by any means—whether auditory, graphic, mechanical, or electronic—without written permission of the author, except in the case of brief excerpts used in critical articles and reviews. Unauthorized reproduction of any part of this work is illegal and is punishable by law.

This is a work of fiction. All of the characters, names, incidents, organizations, and dialogue in this novel are either the products of the author’s imagination or are used fictitiously.

Scripture taken from the Revised Version of the Bible and King James Version.

ISBN: 978-1-4834-8936-0 (sc)

ISBN: 978-1-4834-8935-3 (e)

Because of the dynamic nature of the Internet, any web addresses or links contained in this book may have changed since publication and may no longer be valid. The views expressed in this work are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the views of the publisher, and the publisher hereby disclaims any responsibility for them.

Any people depicted in stock imagery provided by Getty Images are models, and such images are being used for illustrative purposes only.

Certain stock imagery © Getty Images.

Lulu Publishing Services rev. date: 08/27/2018

Books by D. Jeremy Doraido

General Fiction

Dream Catcher

Sanctuary

Chicken-In-the-Kitchen Farm

Adult Science Fiction

With Darkness Come - Book of the Protectorates #1

Where Evil Dwells - Book of the Protectorates # 2

A Taste of Venom - Book of the Protectorates # 3

Release 2019

Dreams of Peace - Book of the Protectorates # 4

email - [e-mail]

website - doraidojeremy.com

Dedicated to my long time friend LaDonna Diehl Schemm. She encouraged my fantasies and dreams.

In memory of my sister Jeannette Coleman Turlington who kept me writing with her desire to tell stories. And sing silly songs.

PROTECTORATE CHANT

Grant us inner peace as we serve our fellow man.

Help us to be merciful to those entrusted to our care.

By the oath of service, may we think not of ourselves,

But live a life of grace as members of these Protectorates.

And if the time should come, a choice we must make,

Let us pass with honor, our lives for those we serve.

Pray, grant us strength to remember our dreams of peace,

And keep the trust in safety till all unite once more.

ASSEMBLY CHAIRS

1st. Frederick - Internal Medicine

2nd. Raymond - OB/GYN

3rd. Harrold - Trauma

4th. Curtis - Neurology

5th. Tristam - Psychiatry

6th. Bellamy - Orthopedics

7th. Randolph - Pediatrics

8th. Leland - Sports Medicine

9th. Paul - ENT

ASSEMBLY

SOVEREIGN SUPREME GUARDIAN HEALER Ruler of New Maryland

black robe/white sash

white and gold emblem with ruby

ASSEMBLY GUARDIAN MASTER HEALERS (8) brown robe/black sash

black and gold emblem with ruby

COURT ASSEMBLY

Sovereign Supreme Guardian Healer

Assembly Guardian Master Healers (8)

Court Guardian Master Judges (8)

HOUSES

HEALERS - Physicians and Research Scientists

LAWGIVERS - Judges and Enforcers

TEACHERS

LAND MANAGERS

MEMBERS

GUARDIAN MASTERS - black sash/black and gold emblem

MASTERS - blue sash/blue and gold emblem

ELDERS - red sash/red and gold emblem

STUDENTS - gold sash/gold and gold emblem

NOVICES - brown sash/no emblem

BOYS AND GIRLS white shirts/blue shorts or slacks

CHAPTER 1

A PUTRID AROMA SOURED THE AIR OF THE BREAK LOUNGE, AS THE DOOR SLOWLY opened. Raymond stopped his discussion with Levi to look up. Jason Aurelius backed in, careful not to touch anything. He was without his boots, but wore operating room slippers. The two guardian masters had been enjoying a hot cup of tea and a slice of coffee cake on a cold, snowy morning. Since clinic was almost empty because of the weather, Levi had removed his white helmet and field mask placing them on the table, while the two Joined members had a moment to relax and socialize.

I’m almost afraid to ask what happened to you, Raymond said, as Jason Aurelius removed a white examination gown and began pulling his soiled undershirt over his head the moment the door closed behind him.

There was a three-year-old who lost his breakfast on me. I almost lost my own. I seemed to be the only one with a patient. Actually, I didn’t see any other Healers in clinic. He balled the two together, wanting to step out of his soiled undershorts also, but decided to wait until he was in the shower room alone. Instead, he removed his surgical slippers and socks. This is disgusting!

We agree with you, Healer, Levi replied, rising to turn on the exhaust fan.

To make matters worse, service personnel wasn’t available to clean my exam room. I had to do it myself. Fortunately I had removed my robe and hung it on the back of the door before I approached the child. I had to red bag my slacks and shirt, then I put on the gown and slippers.

Levi resumed his place at the table, but didn’t continue eating.

I released everyone except for the student at the front desk, Raymond said, explaining why they were alone.

So it’s just three Healers to hold the fort down? Jason Aurelius asked, using one of Raymond’s Before-time terms.

And our two security Enforcers plus Levi. What did you do with the child? Raymond asked, since he was the only guardian master on duty.

He was severely dehydrated and running a fever of 103 degrees. I admitted him to Randolph’s isolation unit and prescribed fluids. He needs further evaluation. Master turned to head for the men’s locker room. Excuse me. I’ve got to shower or get sick.

Throw those clothes in the trash, Raymond ordered. Put them in a red bag. We don’t need contamination.

Turn on the exhaust fan in there, too, Levi called to him.

The men heard the shower in the next room. But just as they were beginning to relax again, the hall door burst open and the student entered, removing her hood.

Guardian Master, the gate keeper notified me of a wagon coming up the drive with a pregnant woman in advanced labor. I have your bag and blankets for an infant. Is there anything else you require?

Master Jason Aurelius is in the shower, Raymond said as he quickly rose from the table to take his bag and arm full of blankets from her, while pulling up his hood. Tell him I need assistance, stat! Get me a gurney and meet us outside. Come, Enforcer.

Levi pulled up his hood, not stopping for his mask and helmet.

Student entered the shower room. Master, Guardian Master needs you for a delivery. Advanced labor. Gate keeper said the patient is arriving by wagon. Raymond went outside to meet them.

Coming, Jason Aurelius replied, turning off the water, though he was still covered in soap.

She went to him with a second clean towel and began drying his back. There’s a strong wind blowing and it’s below freezing outside, Master. Allow me to dry your hair.

No time. Thank you, he said, brushing her aside to begin dressing in fresh scrub shirt and pants, not pausing for underwear or socks. Then he pulled on a pair of clean surgical slippers. Turn on the heat lamp for the infant in the birthing room. Do you know procedure?

Yes, Master. Shall I bring your robe?

My exam room, back of door. Wait, I pushed the red button for the disinfectant spray. It may still be sealed. Make sure it registers clear before anyone goes in and spreads whatever made that child ill. I’d better get outside and help Raymond with the delivery. Jason Aurelius went running down the hallway.

The snow was about six inches deep and still falling. The gale force winds were driving it in two foot drifts against the buildings. Raymond climbed in the rear of the wagon with his patient and the senior Mrs. Fareman. You should have called us, Mr. Faremen, he said, to the young man on the front seat holding the reins.

We were hoping we had plenty of time, Manny replied, trying to steady the team of horses. Aunt Susie thought it was a wrong decision, too, but Jenny insisted. I think she feels more secure in the hospital, if there’s a problem.

The vitals patch and his examination indicated they wouldn’t have long to wait. Where is Jason Aurelius? Enforcer, I require your assistance. Reveal. And open my bag. She’s ready to deliver. We don’t have time to move her inside. Under his breath he whispered, Sorry, Levi.

Enforcer stood on the snow covered ground beside the wagon and pushed his hood off his head to expose his face while opening Raymond’s bag. He squirted liquid gloves on both their hands. I’m here for you, Healer-of-Mine.

Jenny, don’t push until I tell you to. We’ve been through this before with your first child. Trust me, Guardian Master instructed, Beam activated but only able to intervene enough to help her endure the worst of the labor.

She nodded her head while attempting to tolerate the pain he had left.

Okay, on the next contraction, push.

Jason Aurelius opened the fire doors to hear the baby give cries of complaint.

Do you want to cut the cord, Manny? Raymond asked.

Let Aunt Susie. The horses are spooked, he replied, attempting to steady the wagon in the driving snow and sleet.

But when Raymond started to give her the scissors, she was wiping tears from her red cheeks with her gloved hands. Ask Enforcer, Healer, she whispered. I trust him.

Task complete, Raymond quickly wrapped the child in heavy Protectorate issue blankets, then handed the little boy to Levi. Give the child to Jason Aurelius. And let’s get both of them inside, he instructed as student dressed in her robe started down the snow covered ramp with a gurney. Healer covered his patient with the blankets in the wagon.

Levi held the baby to his chest, watching Jason Aurelius start down the steps. Careful, Healer. I need to call and have them properly cleared.

Jason Aurelius shivered in the intense cold. As he started to reach for the infant, his feet slipped on the icy steps and he landed hard on his rear. Levi reached down to help him up.

Are you injured, Healer?

Fine. Get him inside. I’ll be along. Go on. I’m all right, he said, brushing snow from his green scrubs. But the first step he took told him otherwise. His hip and tailbone ached. Jason Aurelius managed to limp up the steps while holding tightly to the railing. He warned Mrs. Fareman to be careful as she passed him, attempting to catch up to Levi.

Manny rode off with Land Manager student going to the barn to see about his team of horses. He was glad his father hadn’t made the trip with them, but had stayed behind with his granddaughter.

He’s a handsome boy, isn’t he, Enforcer? Susie remarked, as she caught up to Levi. She accompanied the heavily armed man as they walked down the hall. She wanted desperately to touch his arm, but knew it wasn’t permitted. Levi wasn’t her husband anymore. I never had children because of the virus.

Levi nodded, overcome with emotions. Would you like to carry him?

No, you should keep him for now. Tears poured down her cheeks.

I’m truly sorry, Levi whispered.

Frank is a good man.

Yes. Forgive me, please. If you’ll excuse me now, Levi said to her as he handed the child off to Jason Aurelius just outside the birthing room. Good day, madame, he said, pulling up his hood and darkening it to black.

Levi returned to the lounge for his white helmet and field mask. Thankfully the room was empty. He slammed his right fist on the table and bowed his head. All the painful nights came flooding back. If only he had not given up his search for her. If only he had not joined. If only things could have been different. But it was too late. She was the wife of his brother, and he had a joined Healer. The venom in his blood reminded him of his oath with a sting in his genitals. Before it could get stronger, he turned for the door. And duty.

Service personnel was responsible for jobs like snow removal, but Levi needed to work off his frustrations.

While he was shoveling the ramp, almost having it completely cleared, Manny arrived. They’re in exam room number five for now, Levi stated, without pausing or looking up.

Thank you, Uncle Allen, Manny whispered. You know she cried herself to sleep at night for years. He stood before Levi, glaring.

Enforcer nodded and kept working.

Can’t you say anything? Explain what happened? Dad’s been sick thinking you were dead or worse. Manny tried to keep his voice low, but his angry accusations were carried by the still, cold air.

Angry mobs roamed the streets and back roads. When I was able to make my way home on foot after serving on night shift, I found our house in flames. There wasn’t anyone to help me put it out. First responders were targeted by those rioting. I assumed they had seen my patrol car parked out front for the last few years. I searched for months unable to locate any of my family. When I became ill with the virus, I wasn’t able to leave Protectorate to continue looking for her. And I wasn’t alone feeling cut off from my life. We were desperate to survive. I am a member. I can’t be her husband. Think of me as dead, Levi said, glancing up at his nephew. Excuse me, please.

He leaned the shovel up against the gray, stone, building. As he turned his back on Manny, he touched the black pad on his helmet and notified IG to send someone to complete what he had started.

IG, notify Guardian Master Raymond that I am headed for the gym if he needs me. Most likely his Joined wasn’t planning to venture out in the freezing weather. Let someone younger respond.

Instead of using the tunnel, which meant having to enter the hospital again, Levi cut across campus. He didn’t want to see his family and hurt them even more. His heart was aching, spilling tears from his eyes to wet his mask with grief. Levi still loved her dearly. The venom struck again even stronger, causing him to pause and catch his breath.

I am a loyal member. I will abide by my oath of service, he whispered, leaning against one of the old oak trees. Please, not now. Head bowed, he panted, waiting for the pain to subside.

By the time he arrived at the sprawling gym complex, his wet mask was frozen to his face. Ignoring the discomfort, he headed for the locker room to change. Surely Aaron or Eben would be available for physical exercise. Both were in the training room teaching two groups of students. Levi decided to join Aaron’s fourth year students for street fighting. He went over to the weapons’ rack and took down a long sword commonly used by rioting mobs. The blade was razor sharp, having been well honed and balanced, he determined, swinging it about, slicing the air.

Aaron glanced over at him. Who wants to be first to challenge Guardian Master Levi?

I will, Jacob replied, always ready to prove himself to his future supervisor.

Wear a helmet, Aaron instructed, the fair complexioned, blond he had come to respect. The student was maturing. Jason Aurelius had chosen well.

Levi ignored the warning.

In the hospital, Jason Aurelius checked the infant’s pulse and respiration, again. Raymond had left to admit his patient for the night.

I have your robe and boots. Everything is back in your pockets from the desk, but it still smells like disinfectant. You should put the warm underwear and dry scrubs on that I brought before you get a chill. I’ll see to the baby, Student said, entering to join him as he was getting ready to write his report. There’s a long sleeved, thermal undershirt. Go on, Master. You’re shivering.

He picked up the towel and dried his hair first. As she moved aside to vaccinate the infant, he began dressing. Even with the robe on he continued to tremble. I don’t know when I’ve been so cold, he stated, his voice quivering, as he adjusted his sash. He puts his hands in his pockets. My pack of vital patches is missing, he said, checking both pockets again. Did you notice them on the floor?

I looked, Master. Nothing. I reasoned you didn’t have any.

I had on slacks and a dress shirt. They were in my pants’ pocket. I put everything on the counter while I stripped. The father was still present. Jason Aurelius sighed deeply. I suppose they’re on the black market by now for a semen farmer.

In this weather?

Have you ever heard what they are going for on the streets of town? I was almost a victim myself before I joined. We’ve given them what they need to determine who isn’t sterile. What a horrible life to live. A sex slave. Jason Aurelius didn’t mention Aaron’s captivity.

How many did you have?

Six. A new pack. I’ll have to report my loss to security, he said as he removed a new pack from an overhead cabinet.

I brought you a hot cup of tea. Sit at the desk, she ordered, sounding like Desmond.

He contacted security immediately, berating himself for not being more careful. They would search the father while he was still in the hospital. Possibly the pack would be found.

While he was checking over the report he had written, the door opened. Randolph entered, removing his hood. Jason Aurelius initialed the paper, then put it in a manila folder.

We have a newborn? he asked, going over to see the baby for himself, touching it’s right hand. The baby cried loudly and squirmed, not happy to be away from its warm secure place with Mom.

Raymond delivered him outside in their wagon. I left him under the lights to bring his body temperature up. He’s been vaccinated. His apgar score was three, four. I’ll deliver him to his family upstairs in maternity, once I’ve had a chance to reassess his condition.

Weight?

Seven pounds, four ounces. Twenty-one inches.

Randolph nodded. First child?

Second, Guardian Master.

I don’t see a bracelet.

I was getting it ready.

It looked like you were sitting down relaxing with a cup of tea, Randolph accused, his back to Jason Aurelius.

Student Ellison brought it to me. I was finishing my report. Jason Aurelius took out two bracelets and wrote one for the baby and one for his mother.

Name? Randolph asked.

Baby boy Fareman for now. I don’t know the infant’s name yet.

Has he been under your care the entire time?

No, Guardian Master. I wasn’t present until after she delivered. Levi was assisting Raymond.

And where were you? Is he a pediatrician now? Randolph snapped. You were assigned to clinic to care for children.

I was showering. When I arrived, she had already delivered.

Didn’t you shower before you came on duty early this morning?

Kyle White threw up on me. I needed to disinfect.

Randolph nodded. The student was listening to their conversation, though she appeared busy with the child, dressing him in a shirt and pants. To conserve body heat, she fitted the child with a blue, knit hat. Then wrapped him snuggly in a blue blanket.

I brought a hospital Beam unit for you. We have a Boy with appendicitis. Desmond will be the lead surgeon. You will assist. See to the baby, then report to OR #3. Quentin will take over morning clinic. Go on. Stop wasting time! And get a haircut! Randolph pulled up his hood and was out the door without another word to either of the Healers on duty.

Glad his supervisor had left, Jason Aurelius stripped down to the waist to put the Beam on his bare shoulder, then dressed in the warm clothes. He picked up the baby to carry on his left shoulder, covering it with an extra blanket. Unlike Randolph, he thanked the student for assisting, and care given when he was in dire need after being out in the frigid temperatures. Wearing his wool robe he limped down the hall to the staff elevators, heading for maternity, but he was still shivering. If only he could pull up his hood to conserve body temperature, maybe he would be able to get warmer. But while caring for a patient, he was required to reveal.

Inserting his key, locking himself to the third floor for maternity and pediatric medicine, he began to pray, Heavenly Father, I petition You that this child will know peace in his lifetime. May he grow strong. And may he come to love You. In Jesus name, LORD, Amen, he said, whispering as was his custom with all the children placed in his care. He gently kissed the infant and snuggled him close. Jason Aurelius loved babies.

Raymond and a female elder from his unit were checking Jenny Fareman, assessing her condition. The other family members were in the hall waiting, giving her privacy. Jason Aurelius stopped so they could see the child.

Please, come in, Elder said, opening the door for the small group.

Jenny held out her hands for her baby. Is he all right?

Doing well, Master replied, placing the infant in her arms. I have a bracelet for you with the child’s number. I didn’t know his name. It says Fareman. He placed his folder on the bedside table, opening it to write.

We decided on Frank for Manny’s father and Allen for his deceased uncle.

He isn’t deceased, Manny muttered.

Manny, Jenny and Susie glanced at each other.

What do you mean? Jenny asked. You always told me he died in the riots. He was a state trooper. His cruiser was found on the side of the road, torched.

You tell her, Manny replied, heading for the door. I’m not naming my child for a traitor who abandoned his wife!

Manny, dear, Susie said, reaching out to stop him. Allen didn’t know I wasn’t dead. We have to forgive him.

He’s dead now! I need some air.

Susie returned to Jenny to hug her. My first husband didn’t die, she said crying. Find another name, please.

You’re sure?

He’s a member. We saw him this morning. Please forgive Manny his anger. The last few years have been hard for all of us. Especially Allen. Why not Mandel for his father? Surely you and Manny would prefer his daddy’s name. Frank Mandel has a good strong sound, Susie said, smiling at the little red faced infant in Jenny’s arms.

You saw him? When?

He was the Enforcer who helped deliver the baby and cut the cord. I can only imagine his pain.

Raymond and Jason Aurelius remained out of the conversation. It was personal, family business.

Perhaps I should come back later. I’ll enter Frank for now. Excuse me, please. I’m due in surgery. Jason Aurelius closed the folder. Good-day.

Thank you for care given, Master, Jenny called to Jason Aurelius as he turned to leave. And thank Enforcer if you see him.

Master nodded a response while pulling up his hood to darken.

Desmond was busy scrubbing when he arrived in the OR suite.

How are you, Little brother?

Okay, I guess, he replied, removing his robe to hang it up with hers.

She glanced over at him. What’s wrong?

We had a delivery outside this morning. I’m still frozen.

The water is nice and warm.

I’d like to sit in it. Maybe I’ll go warm myself in the therapy pools after I get off duty. Jason Aurelius prepared to scrub. So what do we have? Randolph told me it was one of our Boys.

You know him. Thomas. He began complaining this morning at line up. Edmund determined it’s appendicitis. Quentin confirmed the diagnosis. I don’t foresee any unusual problems. Shouldn’t take more than twenty minutes or so. Then you can go warm yourself.

I’m not off duty until later this afternoon. Plus I have to get another haircut.

Another?

I had one yesterday, but Randolph said it’s too long. I wish I knew what his problem is with me.

Looks fine I think.

Maybe I should shave my head bald, he grumbled.

Are you in a foul mood?

Yes! I was outside freezing to death and fell on the steps in the snow. Then Randolph began berating me with a Student present. Did I have constant care of the infant? Why did Levi have to help deliver the child? Why was I sitting down drinking tea while on duty? Had I finished my report? What was the child’s name? I can’t please him no matter what I do!

We all know you are a hard worker, Desmond said, turning the water off with a wave of her wet hands. The automatic faucet was a gift from Before-time.

All but Randolph it seems, Jason Aurelius replied, continuing to scrub.

Morgan is on duty this afternoon.

For that fact, I’m thankful.

A male elder came in to assist with dressing in their surgical gowns and masks. Jason Aurelius activated the Beam to check for its response to his thoughts. Finally he was able to relax. Beam world had a soothing affect on him. Someday he would have his own full time. But that was still years away. If Randolph had any say it would be forever.

Master Edmund was talking to Thomas and holding his hand as he lie covered by a sheet on the operating table. Here is Master Jason Aurelius now. You’ll be all right. I’m going to sit outside and wait.

Can’t you stay? Thomas asked, holding on tight and pleading.

It’s not permitted. The surgeons need to work without distraction.

The assisting elder swung the operating lights about and turned them on. He then smiled at Thomas. I’ll be here. You are going to take a little nap. By afternoon you should be back in Boys’ Quarters with your friends. Trust me, he stated, pulling up his mask.

Jason Aurelius stroked Thomas’ head with his blue fingers, standing so the Boy couldn’t see what he was doing. The child’s thoughts were anxious. Sleep in peace, Boy, he said, recalling how Thomas had cared for him at the farm when he was injured. I won’t let anything happen to you. Trust us.

Promise?

Have I ever gone back on my word? Relax. Close your eyes, now. Listen to my voice. Sleep.

Thomas gently entered the soothing state, accompanied by Master. Rapid eye movement suggested he was peacefully dreaming. Jason Aurelius stepped back and glanced over at Desmond.

Let’s begin, she said, folding her hands, allowing the green sterile field to encompass them. She bowed her head for a moment of prayer.

Jason Aurelius folded his hands and prayed for forgiveness. Again he had allowed Randolph to trouble his heart. A Beam Healer must care for his patient free of animosity towards others. It could interfere with the ability to operate.

When he looked up, Desmond was watching him. Are you okay?

Except for the nagging pain in my back, I’m fine.

I’ll check it when we’re finished.

Elder had spread sterile drapes for them and assembled the few supplies they would need. Desmond was an excellent surgeon. Jason Aurelius was only there to serve as backup. Elder watched their patient’s vitals. No one said a word, other than those necessary between the two Healers performing the operation. Jason Aurelius kept careful watch over Desmond making sure she wasn’t injured by Beam shock. The sensor implanted in her right temple when she became a certified Beam Healer picked up the energy and projected a 3D holographic image for all to see in the room. It was recorded by the computer on the operating room terminal, allowing a play-back. Jason Aurelius watched, but didn’t feel the need to interrupt her work, though he kept his hands on Thomas experiencing the procedure for himself. Desmond was a skilled surgeon. Within fifteen minutes, she stepped back and suggested Jason Aurelius close the tiny incision.

I’m going to sit down and put my feet up. Operating with you is draining, Desmond said, peeling off her gloves to dispose of in the container.

I’m sorry. Would you have preferred I not touch the patient?

Don’t be. You were present if needed. I’ve been warned. She patted his shoulder as he covered the incision against infection. Would you speak to Edmund? I know he’s concerned. Perhaps we should allow Thomas to wake naturally. I was told he was sick all night.

I’ll see he is moved to a recovery room for now, Elder said, turning off the lights and beginning to straighten the room as the two masters removed their surgical gowns and masks.

I’ll go talk to Edmund, Jason Aurelius said.

Then I want to check your spine for injury. Meet me back here in fifteen minutes. And don’t give me a hard time, Little Brother!

Yes, Mother, he replied smiling.

Edmund met Jason Aurelius in the private room. Elder checked their patient, then left. The old master went over to pick up the Boy’s hand to hold. Gently he patted it and smiled. Though it wasn’t his child by birth, Edmund felt like a father to each of the Boys placed in his care.

Thank you for care given, Jason Aurelius.

I didn’t operate. I only assisted. You need to thank Desmond, he said, as he checked the vitals patch for himself.

Edmund nodded. I cherish each child Assembly assigns. You know Thomas is almost twelve. He’s been talking to me about his choice for a guardian. Edmund paused to look up at Jason Aurelius.

Someone I know?

Actually, he wants you.

Me? Why me?

Jason Aurelius, the Boy considers you the smartest Healer in Protectorate. Master smiled. You must know he thinks every word you say to be gospel.

I’m feeling less than perfect right now, Edmund. I lost a new pack of vital patches this morning. Security is looking for them. When Randolph hears he’s going to be furious.

Do you have any idea where they might be found?

My patient’s father. He should still be in Protectorate. Jason Aurelius rubbed his back, the pain seemed to be getting worse. Excuse me now, Edmund. I have an appointment with Desmond. I fell on the outside steps this morning. And thank you for sharing Boy’s intentions.

What do you suppose your answer might be, Jason Aurelius?

I’m honored. Yes, I would be ready to accept the responsibility.

Desmond and her Joined, Ethan were sharing tea and a glass of milk when he arrived.

You came, Desmond said, rising from the tall stool, placing her milk glass on the counter.

Didn’t you think I would?

She stared at him.

All right, I know what you’re going to say. It’s hurting worse than before.

I’ll check, but I want you to see Bellamy. Lean on the table and slip your scrubs down so I can look.

Ethan sat out of the way, continuing to drink her tea. It had been a long day. She was anxious for the two of them to return to chambers to rest. Sometimes it seemed Desmond tried to keep up with her ‘Little Brother’ as she called him. Most likely Ethan’s Healer would be a guardian master Beam Healer, but never Third Chair.

Jason Aurelius leaned on the table, his scrubs pushed down so she could examine his back with her Beam. He lowered his head and moaned, overcome with pain.

You have abrasions down the majority of your back. Did you scrape against the steps when you fell?

Yes.

You had your robe on? she asked, her Beam changing color as she prepared to clean the area.

Just scrubs, he replied, moaning and grabbing for the edge of the table. I was showering and didn’t have time for underwear. It feels raw.

It is. This is going to sting. You need to have Bellamy check it for other injuries. She laid her left hand on his shoulder. Easy. Almost finished.

The door to the operating room opened. Randolph. What is going on here? You should have been finished a half hour ago. We have another procedure scheduled for this room. Didn’t you two see the post? And what are you doing? Pull your pants up, Master! Get out of here! I’ll see you in my office. Move!

Ethan rose from her chair back in the corner of the room, her white helmet tucked under her left arm and said, My Healer was administering care, Assembly Guardian Master. I have been present the entire time. There were no questionable activities. She stared at him, not backing down. How dare anyone suggest her Healer was not loyal to the oath of service.

Jason Aurelius pulled up his pants and lowered his shirts. Thank you for care given, Desmond. I’ll do as you suggested.

Randolph continued to stare at him as he dressed in his robe. My office, Master! We have matters to discuss.

As if not trusting Jason Aurelius to obey, Randolph walked with him, but entered first, then slammed the door behind his subordinate. He went to his desk chair, not inviting the young master to sit.

Lower your hood when I’m talking to you! He was unnerving Jason Aurelius with his intense expression. Security found these on a citizen this morning. What can you tell me about the pack?

I lost them in my exam room. I suspect a father picked them up from the counter.

You leave vital patches lying about? You know the warning to guard them from citizens.

I know, Assembly Guardian Master. The child had thrown up on me. I was stripping. He must have grabbed them when I emptied my pockets.

Do you have any on your person?

A fresh pack.

Randolph extended his bare hand. I’ll take them. In the future you will only carry those without the capability to read sexual activity. If there is a need, you will petition a guardian master. Do I make myself clear?

Yes, Assembly Guardian Master, Jason Aurelius replied, receiving the pack from Randolph. It clearly stated the inability to detect male or female reproduction capabilities. Its wrapper was gold.

Hold out your bare right arm. Randolph checked his snake bite which was bright red. Then he placed a vitals patch on his flesh. The sperm reading was zero. Randolph nodded, then peeled the patch off. You know we have security Enforcers to check snake bites. I would hate for them to suspect you and Desmond of any wrong doings.

We weren’t alone for the examination.

Randolph continued to glare at him. Master, I’ve decided to assign you the four citizen schools beginning next week. That’s Monday through Thursday from 8am until 3pm. On Friday and Saturday you will have clinic duty or answer home calls. Go on now. I want you back in clinic for afternoon duty. Quentin needs to be relieved for mid-day Duty Master. And take off that Beam unit! It’s not yours to wear full time.

I turned it in at the OR check-in desk, before I went to see the Boy in recovery, Guardian Master.

Go on, get out of here! Randolph said, waving him out the door.

CHAPTER 2

S EATED AT THE INFORMATION DESK IN CLINIC, JASON AURELIUS ATE A SANDWICH and drank a glass of milk while filling out reports. He and the new, afternoon student were alone. Neither of them had their hoods raised and darkened. Morgan was in her office trying to catch up on files.

Is it always this quiet, Master?

Is this your first day in clinic, Herndon? he asked the nervous, blond haired female who was doing paperwork with him.

Yes, Master.

Enjoy the time to relax. Are you third year?

Yes, Master.

Tell me, who was your guardian.

You probably don’t know Master Daniel. I’m a transfer from the House of Teachers. But I’ve heard about you, Master.

A Teacher? How could you transfer?

I’m a scientist, she whispered in confidence, glancing down the long hallway to be sure they were alone. I was trained to teach nature lessons for citizen youth. What I want to do is research and teach real science to member children. Assembly reassigned me. I’ll wear the Healer emblem, but I’ll never care for patients. This was a requirement for my class in child study. I’m honored to serve with you today.

I’m honored to work with you. My parents were research scientists before it was a dirty word. I’m told Father disliked seeing patients.

Are they still alive? Do they live in Protectorate?

Both died. They were working on a vaccine and cure for the virus.

How noble. They gave their lives for all of us.

Jason Aurelius bowed his head, unable to reply, knowing the truth. Instead he appeared busy with the form he was filling out for Morgan.

Forgive me if my question is considered rude. Is it difficult being what you are and caring for patients here and in the field? You’re the first mutant Healer I’ve met since joining. Sorry. Guardian always warned me about my mouth, Student said, returning to the paperwork. Please forgive me, Master.

It is difficult being a recognized mutant. But not always. Herndon, my mouth used to get me in trouble, too. I’m not offended, it was an honest question. Jason Aurelius turned his head to smile at the student. So what are you interested in researching?

The effects of the virus. Some children were born without eyes. Some blind. Others extremely disfigured.

Many were slaughtered before they had a chance for a first birthday, I was told, Jason Aurelius replied. My maternal grandfather hid me until I joined at the age of twenty-one.

That makes it harder to determine what really occurred. There are only a handful of members to study.

And a few citizens, if they can be found. Families are still afraid, and hide their children.

You probably know it returned a second time. The effects were even worse, Master.

Herndon, it’s still active, and mutating. Why have you selected virus mutations to study? Jason Aurelius asked, intrigued. Did you know someone?

My older brother. When I left home to join at twelve they still had him in hiding. I don’t know what became of him. They signed my release on the promise I wouldn’t tell. I keep checking to see if his birth and mutation was revealed to Assembly. Since I can’t acknowledged family, it’s nearly impossible.

We can access family records to check if he’s registered. Let me look,